If you have blood and are in the giving mood, you could consider being a donor today.
Until 5 p.m., Baptist Memorial Hospital-Golden Triangle is hosting a blood drive. The event is taking place at the Outpatient Pavilion Conference Center. It began at 11 a.m.
Donna Grant, the hospital’s director of community relations, said a donor should expect the process to last an hour, to an hour and a half. Donors should bring a photo ID and eat a good meal and drink plenty of fluids before arriving, she said.
There is currently a “critical need” for O negative blood type, according to United Blood Services.
“This is the universal blood type all donors can use,” the organization’s website states. “The holidays are coming and we want to make sure blood is available if it’s needed. Unfortunately, holidays usually bring about an increase in accidents of various types, so please encourage all donors to donate. One in three people will need blood in their lifetime.”
Baptist Memorial Hospital holds four blood drives each year.
For more information or to take a self-interview about whether you are eligible to give blood, visit unitedbloodservices.org.
The hospital has two other holiday-related events upcoming.
A fundraiser for the Salvation Army Toy Drive and March of Dimes will take place Thursday, Dec. 5, at the Outpatient Pavilion Conference Center, from 2 to 4 p.m. A silent auction for decorated Christmas wreaths will be held. Refreshments will be served.
On Thursday, Dec. 12, the hospital is hosting a luncheon at noon that will include a presentation titled, “How to handle stress during the holidays.” Carrie White, clinical coordinator with Behavioral Health, will host the event, which will take place in classrooms near the gift shop. Lunch will be served. To register for the event call (662) 244-1132 or email [email protected].
William Browning was managing editor for The Dispatch until June 2016.
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